US launches Project Homecoming: Free flights & cash for voluntary return of undocumented immigrants

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched a new campaign encouraging undocumented immigrants to leave the United States voluntarily, offering free flights to their home countries and a cash incentive of USD 2,600. The initiative, called Project Homecoming, aims to provide a more organised and cost-effective alternative to forced deportation.

Under the scheme, migrants can use the CBP Home App to register their intention to leave the country voluntarily. Through the app, they can submit personal details, plan their travel, and access information about the financial support available.

The DHS says the programme allows people to return home without arrest, detention, or restraints, making the process smoother and less stressful. Participants are also given time to settle personal matters, such as work, school, or family responsibilities, before leaving.

According to DHS, more than 2.2 million undocumented immigrants have taken part in the programme since it began in January 2025. To promote the initiative, the department has used images of global landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, along with sites in countries like Colombia and China, in its outreach campaigns.

The US government says the programme significantly reduces the cost of deportation.

A traditional forced deportation costs about USD 18,245 per person, while the self-deportation option costs around USD 5,100, including the cash incentive. This means a saving of over USD 13,000 per person for taxpayers.

When the programme was first introduced, the cash incentive was USD 1,000. It was later increased to USD 3,000 during the holiday season to encourage more participation. Currently, the amount has been fixed at USD 2,600.

The programme was launched after the start of the second term of Donald Trump, whose administration has focused heavily on immigration enforcement.

While there are signs of a possible shift towards targeting criminal offenders rather than mass deportation, the overall effort to remove undocumented immigrants is continuing at a large scale. The US government is also investing heavily in hiring more enforcement officers and building detention facilities, with a target of deporting around one million immigrants this year.

Officials say Project Homecoming offers a safer and more flexible option compared to traditional deportation methods. By encouraging voluntary return, the government hopes to reduce enforcement costs while giving migrants a more dignified way to leave the country.